Krumbiegel’s headstone damaged, immediate restoration sought

A grassroots advocacy group in India has called for a swift investigation and restoration of the damaged headstone of Gustav Krumbiegel, a renowned German horticulturist and town planner, located at Hosur Road Cemetery in Bengaluru. Krumbiegel, who served as the curator and architect of Lalbagh, played a pivotal role in transforming the city into the 'Garden City of India'.

Priya Chetty Rajagopal, representing the citizen-led organization Heritage Beku, submitted a petition to the Deputy Commissioner of Police and the Director/ Deputy Director of the Horticulture Department, drawing attention to the "severe damage to the headstone of the legendary landscape architect and visionary." Chetty Rajagopal emphasized that Krumbiegel's contributions to Bengaluru's heritage are invaluable, particularly his iconic designs at Lalbagh.

Alyia Krumbiegel, the great-granddaughter of Gustav Krumbiegel and a core member of Heritage Beku, expressed her grief over the incident. She was hesitant to burden the community with the issue, especially given the ongoing discussions regarding the parks Bill. The group is awaiting the report from Lalbagh officials, who promised to inspect the site.

The petition demands a thorough joint inspection by the Police and Horticulture departments to determine if the damage was due to accident, natural wear and tear, or deliberate vandalism. If the cause is found to be vandalism, the Police Department is urged to swiftly investigate, identify, and apprehend the culprits, as such desecration of historical monuments is unacceptable.

Kusuma G., Deputy Director of the Horticulture Department (Lalbagh), confirmed that they have been informed about the damage to Krumbiegel's grave. They will conduct a spot inspection at Hosur Road Cemetery on Friday. The group's statement highlights Krumbiegel's immense contribution to making Bengaluru a Garden City, and assures that necessary action will be taken to repair and restore the damaged headstone immediately.